COUNTY — The Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County along with the U.S. Coast Guard District. 7 urge pet owners and boaters to use caution and common sense over the Fourth of July holiday. “Fireworks and festivities can scare and disorient even the calmest animal,” said Maria Ramirez, animal care manager at the humane society. She added that July 4 and 5 are the two days that the most dogs and cats are reported lost to humane societies nationwide.While pet owners must remain on guard for open doors and loose leashes to keep their pets safe, boaters too are urged to pay attention to their surroundings.”Make this holiday memorable with positive reasons, not because of an avoidable tragedy,” said Capt. Timothy M. Close, of the U.S. Coast Guard District 7. “File a float plan [make sure someone knows where you’re going and when,] have and know how to use your safety equipment, and have a designated boater.”Humane Society pet safety tips:

Keep your pets home during celebrations instead of taking them to the park to watch the fireworks display. Animals can get anxious in large crowds, especially once the fireworks start and they hear the booms and crackles of the explosives.

If you’re celebrating at home and you know your pets could be frightened by the fireworks, ask your vet if medication might be appropriate to help calm them. Also, keep your pets inside the home, instead of allowing them out in the yard or screened patio. Fireworks have been known to cause pets to jump, claw and dig their way out of their property.

Keep your pets calm by providing a sanctuary for them. Place them in a bedroom or office and turn on a radio to soft music or even talk radio to help drown out the noise from the fireworks.

Pets should also have identification on them at all times – which the Humane Society recommends year-round, not just on the Fourth of July. Pets that do get away from their humans are more likely to be returned if they have identification.

If your pets get lost, call the Humane Society at (772) 567-2309 or e-mail [email protected].

Coast Guard boating safety tips:

Weather is unpredictable and boaters should check the forecast frequently by tuning to channels one through five on VHF marine radios or checking the National Weather Service’s Web site, www.nws.noaa.gov.

Drinking alcohol while boating is dangerous. About 30 percent of recreational boating fatalities have been attributed to alcohol. Intoxicated boaters can be charged by federal and state law enforcement agencies and face up to one year in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.

Do not use emergency flares as impromptu fireworks. Flares are reserved for emergency use only.

Wear a lifejacket, file a float plan with non-boating family and friends, and have a working VHF radio and EPIRB – advice the Coast Guard provides year-round.